Von Miller was the Broncos’ most dominant player Sunday, even with Peyton Manning as his teammate.

That’s no surprise. Miller might be the NFL’s best defensive player. Better than J.J. Watt, the Texans’ splendid defensive end. Better than Charles Tillman, the Bears cornerback who has turned forcing fumbles into an art form.

Von Miller's MVP candidacy is getting a boost from his torrid November on the Broncos defense. (AP Photo)

Watt and Tillman both had a terrific September and October. But Miller is having a November to remember. Miller’s performance Sunday was sensational. He had three sacks, two forced fumbles and two tackles for a loss, leading the Broncos to a 30-23 victory over the Chargers.

Miller now leads the NFL with 13 sacks. He has seven in the last three games. In only his second season, Miller has joined Reggie White, Dwight Freeney, and Javon Kearse as the only four players with 11 sacks or more during their first two seasons.

When Miller comes roaring off the edge from his outside linebacker position, he invokes memories of his idol, Derrick Thomas, the late Chiefs’ Hall of Fame linebacker. Miller wears No. 58 in honor of Thomas. The legacy is being upheld in glorious fashion.

Miller is the most important defensive player on a Broncos’ team that looks like a legit Super Bowl contender. If the Broncos are going to do damage in the playoffs, they need a defense that can rattle quarterbacks like Tom Brady, Matt Schaub and Ben Roethlisberger.

A dominant pass rusher is the best way to neutralize quarterbacks in today’s pass-happy NFL. Miller gives the Broncos that guy. Even when he doesn’t get a sack, Miller can cause havoc. His best play in Sunday’s game led to an interception by safety Jim Leonhard. Miller shed off a chip block, made his way through inside traffic, and got close enough to Rivers to force a mistake. Rivers unloaded the football early, before Miller could unload. But the presence of Miller caused Rivers to throw a pick, which was worse than taking a sack.

Miller loves to dance after sacks, which means he’s gotten plenty of practice perfecting his moves. Maybe a spot on "Dancing with the Stars" is in Miller’s future. At the very least, Miller’s national profile is rising. Watching the Broncos isn’t just about watching what Manning will do next. It’s about watching Miller.